There is definitely something to be said for entering the playoffs on a hot streak. It’s amazing how many teams manage to make a deep run based on the momentum they built up in the final couple of weeks of the regular season. Alternatively, good teams that go cold to end the season often find it difficult to flip the switch back to earlier season performances. That is exactly what the Nashville Predators are facing in their series with the Chicago Blackhawks. They are 2-1 down in the series, and are desperate for a win in Game 4 in Chicago on Tuesday night, we have a NHL betting preview to help you wager on it below.
Chicago vs Nashville: NHL Betting Analysis and Match Preview
Date: Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Time: 9:30PM
Venue: United Center
Opening Line: Chicago -156
Things certainly appeared to be looking up for Nashville, as they roared out to a 3-0 lead in Game 1 on home ice. The Blackhawks started chipping away at that lead, though, and were able to get the game to OT, where they snatched the winner and a vital away win. The Predators bounded back nicely in Game 2, winning 6-2, thanks in large part to a 3-point performance from Craig Smith. That same man was excellent for the Preds in Game 3, adding 2 more assists to his postseason tally, albeit in a losing effort. Game 4 is now a must in for Nashville, as coming back from a 3-1 deficit against a team that looks as strong as Chicago does is a very tall order. The Predators finished the regular season playing less than stellar hockey, and they look to be continuing that struggle through the first 3 games of the series.
The Blackhawks appear to have received a real lift with the return of Patrick Kane after a lengthy absence through injury. We all knew that this was a very skillful team, but I think most were a little surprised by the level of grit and determination that they showed in Game 1 of the series. Jonathan Toews has been the star of the show for Chicago to this point, tallying 5 points (2G 3A) during the first three games. The Blackhawks have been spreading the offense around a little bit, too, but they will still be looking to tighten things up defensively, as they will not be happy with the 11 goals that they have given up to this point.
Key Betting Trends
Nashville is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Nashville’s last 9 games
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Nashville’s last 12 games on the road
Nashville is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Chicago
Chicago is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Chicago’s last 8 games at home
Chicago is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Nashville
Chicago is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Nashville
What Should You Bet On?
I think that the Blackhawks are a team who can make a very deep run in the playoffs, and I don’t believe that they will allow the opportunity to put a stranglehold on this series pass them by. I like them to win Game 4 on Tuesday night as they prepare to finish this series off pretty quickly.
